One Dead, Seven Hospitalised After Contaminated Sleeping Pills Shock
A man has died and seven others are in hospital after taking potentially contaminated Zopiclone tablets, police warn. Cleveland Police issued an urgent alert about a dangerous batch of the insomnia drug that could cause severe illness or overdose.
Incident Shakes County Durham
The victims were rushed to North Tees General Hospital in Stockton-on-Tees, County Durham, last Friday. Authorities are investigating the death of one man believed to have ingested the tainted tablets.
Police: Beware Contaminated Zopiclone
“Officers are warning drug users of a potentially contaminated batch which could cause significant illness or lead to an overdose,” said Cleveland Police in a statement.
Zopiclone is a prescription-only sleeping pill used for short-term treatment of severe insomnia. It is generally prescribed for just two to four weeks due to tolerance risks.
Health Risks of Zopiclone
- Zopiclone boosts a calming brain chemical called GABA, causing drowsiness.
- Mixing it with alcohol is dangerous – it can lead to deep, hard-to-wake sleep.
- The drug carries high addiction and misuse risks, with potentially fatal withdrawal.
According to NHS data, Zopiclone featured on GP prescriptions 167,288 times in 2023, remaining widely used despite safety concerns.
Police Urge Public to Come Forward
Cleveland Police are appealing for information about the contaminated batch. Anyone with details is urged to call 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
The police warn the community to stay alert for suspicious activity involving Zopiclone tablets and report anything unusual immediately.
